How to Get Rid of Acne in the Pubic Area

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RANLYN OAKES Last Updated: May 16, 2016

Ranlyn Oakes

Ranlyn Oakes is a business writer and journalist with more than a decade as either a staff writer or freelancer for a variety of regional and national publications, including newspapers and magazines. His specialties include health care, international trade, manufacturing and career advice. Oakes holds a Bachelor of Arts in print journalism from the University of Kentucky.

You can use an antibacterial soap to wash the area.Photo Credit Tetra Images/Tetra images/Getty Images

The hair of the pubic region makes the area prone to acne-type lesions called folliculitis. The spots are, in fact, an inflammation of the hair follicles, and they appear as red bumps, sometimes with pus inside them. Itchiness and tenderness are common. The condition has many potential causes, including friction, bacteria, fungi and yeasts. Folliculitis pimples in the pubic area are highly treatable and can generally be cleared, but the condition frequently recurs, making repeat treatment necessary.

Step 1

Wash the area twice a day. Pubic acne often stems from microorganisms, such as bacteria or fungi, growing in the area. You can use antibacterial soap or body wash or try an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment.

Step 2

Keep dry. Moisture, such as from sweat, enhances the growth of germs that contribute to folliculitis. You may want to use a blow dryer two to three times per day, according to Orlando dermatologist Dr. John Meisenheimer.

Step 3

Take a break from hair removal, if that is part of your grooming routine. This will let the irritation die down. Shaving in particular can cause pimples in the pubic area. Give the area four to six weeks of rest, Meisenheimer suggests. When you do go back to shaving, following up with a soothing aftershave preparation can be beneficial, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Step 4

Use compresses to relieve discomfort during healing. A warm washcloth moist with water can serve the purpose if used several times a day, according to the Mayo Clinic. Also worth a try is a warm compress made with white vinegar.